The Conference of Ijaw Traditional Rulers and Elders (CITRE) has declared that no legitimate election of the Ijaw National Congress (INC) took place on April 13, 2026.
Chairman of CITRE, King Bubaraye Dakolo, made this known during a press briefing in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, stating that the process violated established guidelines.
Dakolo explained that the decision to suspend the election had already been agreed upon by key stakeholders due to unresolved issues that could escalate tensions within the organisation.
Despite the directive, he said some individuals proceeded with the electoral process, an action he described as unconstitutional and lacking legitimacy.
According to him, Ijaw traditional leaders were not notified of any new timetable after the suspension order, further invalidating the exercise.
The CITRE chairman emphasized that the body has constitutional authority under the INC framework to intervene in electoral matters affecting the organisation.
He noted that the intervention was aimed at preserving unity, ensuring due process, and maintaining stability within the Ijaw National Congress.
Dakolo, who is also the Paramount Ruler of Ekpetiama Kingdom and Chairman of the Bayelsa State Traditional Rulers Council, reiterated that the purported election does not stand.
He announced that a dispute resolution committee established by CITRE would soon begin hearings to address complaints and grievances raised by stakeholders.
The committee is expected to review all petitions and facilitate a transparent process that will lead to a credible and widely accepted election.
The development adds to the ongoing leadership tensions within the INC, a key socio-political organisation representing Ijaw interests in Nigeria.
